An exploration of the experiences of vulnerable young people participating in a stand-up paddle-boarding therapy course; a phenomenological study

ORCID

Abstract

Nature based interventions have been advocated as an approach to support mental health and well-being in young people. The Wave Project, a United Kingdom based charity, has an established surf therapy intervention for vulnerable children and adolescents which has been demonstrated to have a positive impact on mental health and well-being. However, this intervention provides challenges in terms of accessibility for young people located away from the coast. Stand-up paddle-boarding is an aquatic activity which can be conducted on inland waters, which therefore has the potential to address this barrier. Semi-structured interviews (n=6) utilising video and photo elicitation were conducted with young people participating in a five-week Stand-up paddle-boarding course delivered on a canal in a central city location in the South-west of England. Transcripts were analysed using a qualitative phenomenological approach. Participants reported engaging in paddle-boarding induced a feeling of calmness and provided respite from pre-occupations of school and other concerns. The support provided by instructors and volunteers gave them a sense of both physical and psychological safety which provided them with the confidence to master a new skill. This experience increased their self-confidence and self-esteem as well as reducing social anxiety and feelings of anger. The findings suggest that a Stand-up paddle-boarding course may confer mental health and well-being benefits for vulnerable young people. The ability to deliver this intervention on a canal in the centre of a city increases its accessibility to young people living inland.

Publication Date

2026-02-23

Publication Title

Health & Social Care in the Community

ISSN

0966-0410

Acceptance Date

2026-02-23

Deposit Date

2026-02-24

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